What does the "duty of fair representation" entail for a union?

The "duty of fair representation" is a fundamental principle in labor relations that requires a union to represent all employees within a bargaining unit, regardless of whether they are union members or not. This principle ensures that the union acts in the best interest of all employees when negotiating contracts, resolving disputes, and handling grievances.

This duty arises from the understanding that unions have been granted the authority to act as exclusive representatives for all employees in a collective bargaining unit. Consequently, they cannot favor one employee over another or provide preferential treatment based on membership status or individual contributions. The essence of this obligation is to ensure fair and equitable treatment, promoting solidarity among all workers in the bargaining unit.

The requirement to represent all bargaining unit employees fairly embodies the union's responsibility to support the interests of the entire workforce, thereby reinforcing the principles of equity and fairness in the workplace. This includes ensuring that all voices are heard and considered in negotiations and representation efforts.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately reflect the nature of the duty of fair representation. For instance, an obligation to negotiate only for the best terms for members limits the union's responsibilities to only those who are paying dues, which contradicts the inherent nature of representation. Similarly, choosing which employees to represent undermines the